This may be hard to believe since the company has over 30 models, but Lund Boats actually felt there were holes in its lineup that needed to be filled going into the 2011 model year - in particular, between its Rebel and Explorer models.

So, like any good boat company, they created a boat that would bridge the gap: the new 1775 Impact. And with its design, the brass at Lund had two things in mind: fishability and affordability.

Fishability is a combination of smart storage and fishing features, both of which the 1775 Impact Sport has in spades. There are two livewells, one in the bow and one aft, with the latter also having a drop-in bait bucket. There’s storage everywhere you look, including in the bow and aft, as well as rod-specific, lockable storage compartments in the gunwales and down the centre of the floor.

The 1775 I spent time with had the optional folding casting platform that converts to jump seats in a snap - or should I say, in a flip. For me, this is a must-have option. It expands the versatility and comfort of your boat with zero sacrifice.

It’s also worth mentioning that, much like its counterparts, the 1775 Impact is built on Lund’s renowned IPS hull. Often imitated but never duplicated, the IPS hull gives you a faster, dryer, more stable ride.

This all comes into play on the water with a 0 to 20 mph hole shot of under five seconds and a top speed of 45 mph at 6000 rpm. Turns were clean and precise. And even when you trim down for a tight, full-lock turn with more boat in the water, the strakes still push the water down and away, keeping you dry.

I don’t mean to downplay the thought that goes into a new model, but the new 1775 Impact Sport shows Lund has got it down as far as I’m concerned. Hopefully its new model has the same impact on you.